Widespread backing for East End teachers’ SATS test boycott

PUBLISHED: 16:08 10 May 2010 | UPDATED: 15:59 05 October 2010

UNION officials in London’s East End are confident today’s boycott of primary school tests has widespread support. Tower Hamlets council confirmed that staff at 34 of its 65 primary schools were supporting the boycott. The teacher union said the figure was higher

UNION officials in London's East End are confident today's boycott of primary school tests has widespread support.

Tower Hamlets council confirmed that staff at 34 of its 65 primary schools were supporting the boycott.

The National Union of Teachers said the figure was higher.

NUT Tower Hamlets rep Alex Kenny told the East London Advertiser: "We would estimate 40 to 45 schools are not taking part in the tests.

"Even the other schools have expressed support. Some say they are completing the tests because the children have been prepared for them. But they still support our action.

"Some will be taking the tests but not handing over the results."

More than 600,000 children in the UK were scheduled to take part in today's SATS.

Tower Hamlets Council acknowledged the support the boycott is getting in th4e East End. A Town Hall spokesman said: "We recognise the democratic right of teachers to boycott the tests, although it has unfortunately prevented a number of pupils taking part."

Completed SATs papers will be sent for checking and marking, the authority assured. Schools will also send their teacher assessments as part of the process.